Violet (Eleanor Cobb) is an energetic and enthusiastic child, full of questions about life and death. After the death of a bird she drags her busy single Mother, Lily (Fanny Le Pironnec) back to where they buried it to see if it had flown to heaven.
The questions come thick and fast throughout the performance. Violet wants to know who her father is and the audience is never clear who he was. She desperately wants to be liked and have friends.
There are a lot of directly asked unanswered questions throughout the play. However, if you watch and listen carefully some of them become clear although not confirmed. Much of the dreamlike state especially through Lily’s performance invites the audience to make their minds up and decide what the truth is.
Trauma is one of the main themes running throughout the play. In the role of Lily, Le Pironnec captured the frustration of trying to work and concentrate as a single parent with a highly demanding child who doesn’t fit in at school, hasn’t any friends and almost requires your attention twenty-four hours a day. Violet is likeable yet incredibly high maintenance and Cobb brings the character to life brilliantly.
The play is an interesting storyline although at times it becomes slightly muddled and difficult to follow. With some reworking and editing, this has the potential to be a strong production. It’s a production to experience rather than what you might enjoy.
For more information about Do Birds Hide to Die? Please use the link below.
Three Stars
Violet (daughter) – Eleanor Cobb
Lily (mother) – Fanny Le Pironnec
https://www.praguefringe.com/cz/program/do-birds-hide-to-die/
The piece invites audiences into a shifting world of memories and dreams, blending physical theatre, poetry, song, and naturalism. Rather than offering easy answers, it encourages reflection, leaving space for interpretation and personal connection.
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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